As momentum builds to improve how schools teach history (including the more painful parts of it), there’s been a push for more comprehensive, thoughtful, and accurate education around Indigenous American history. In fact, some states have recently passed legislation to better ensure that Indigenous American history and culture are reflected in the curriculum. During the month of November, which is also Native American Heritage Month, there’s a timely opportunity to deepen learning around the history, contributions, and contemporary issues of Indigenous peoples. Keep reading for lessons and activities to incorporate Indigenous American history and perspectives into your curriculum — throughout both Native American Heritage Month and the whole year.
Lessons and Activities about Indigenous American History and Culture
Use these lessons and classroom activities as a starting point to deepen student understanding of Indigenous American history, culture, and contributions for Native American Heritage Month and beyond.
Indigenous NHL Players 2020-21 (PDF & JPG format) by Tipler Teaches
Not Grade Specific
Oral Storytelling with Story Vines: An Indigenous Perspective by Indigenous Education Resources
Not Grade Specific
Native American Heroes + History Clip Art by Prince Padania
Not Grade Specific
A Little’s Introduction to Native American/Indigenous Culture by Cottontail Creations
PreK-1st Grades
Close Reading Unit: An Intro to Native Americans Comprehension Passages by Real Native Learning Resources
K-1st Grade
Indigenous People Groups of the World: Characteristics/Way of Life: Diversity by Teaching with Bonnie
2nd-4th Grades
California Native Americans-Distance Learning by Sailing into Second
2nd-4th Grades
Persuasive Writing – Respecting Native American Headdress Activity FREEBIE by Real Native Learning Resources
3rd-6th Grades
Facts, Myths, and Stereotypes – Native American ELA Unit by Real Native Learning Resources
3rd-6th Grades
Canada’s Indigenous People (First Nations, Aboriginal) – Inquiry Based Unit by Fun in Fourth
3rd-5th Grades
Indigenous Peoples Day Activities in Spanish by Maestra Manzano
3rd-10th Grades
Indigenous Reconciliation & Anti-Racism Interactive Notebook Mini Unit by One Curious World
4th-7th Grades
First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Event Reflection by INDgenius – Indigenous Education Resources
6th-12th Grades
Discover more classroom activities and resources to help you teach about the history and contributions of Indigenous Americans for Native American Heritage Month and beyond.
